Oral aspirin or low dose of intravenous lysine acetylsalicylate in ST-elevation myocardial infarction undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention.

AIM: To compare the pharmacodynamic effect of an oral loading dose of 'noncoated' ASA 300 mg vs. an intravenous bolus injection of lysine acetylsalicylate 150 mg in patients with STEMI undergoing pPCI. METHODS: This was a prospective single-center, open label, pharmacodynamic study, including nonconsecutive patients presenting at our catheterization laboratory with STEMI undergoing pPCI and not receiving ASA within the previous 7 days. Pharmacodynamic analyses were performed at five time points: baseline, and 1, 2, 4 and 12 h after the loading dose, and measured as ASA reaction units (ARU) by the Verify Now System. An ARU more than 550 was considered as nonresponsiveness to study drugs. The primary end point was the different rate of patients with ARU more than 550 at 2 h after the loading dose of oral vs. intravenous ASA. Secondary end points included the comparison of ARU more than 550 at the other time points and the comparison of continuous ARU at each time point. RESULTS: The study was planned with a sample size of 68 patients, but it was prematurely stopped due to slow enrollment after the inclusion of 23 patients, 12 randomized to oral ASA and 11 to intravenous lysine acetylsalicylate. At 2 h the rate of patients with ARU more than 550 was numerically but not significantly higher in patients receiving oral ASA as compared with intravenous lysine acetylsalicylate (33 vs. 14.2%; Δ -0.19, 95% confidence interval -0.59-0.21, P = 0.58). The difference over time was NS (P = 0.98), though the prevalence of ARU more than 550 was higher at the other time points. Both routes of administration reduced ARU values over time, though with no overall significant difference between profiles (P overall = 0.48). CONCLUSION: In patients with STEMI undergoing pPCI the rate of nonresponsiveness to ASA was not different comparing an oral 'noncoated' loading dose of ASA with an intravenous bolus injection of lysine acetylsalicylate. However, as patient enrollment was prematurely terminated, this study is underpowered to draw a definite conclusion.

Predictors of complications in initially haemodynamically stable patients admitted in a modern coronary care unit.

AIMS: Resource optimization in the intensive cardiac care unit (ICCU) is, nowadays, of great importance because of the increasing number of acute cardiovascular patients requiring high-intensity level-of-care. Because of natural limits in ICCU bed availability, understanding, which patients will really benefit from in a such a critical care setting, is of paramount importance. In our study, we analysed a heterogeneous ICCU population with initially stable haemodynamic conditions, in order to find potential predictors of severe complications. METHODS: Nine hundred and fifty patients admitted to our ICCU during the year 2019 were screened in order to detect those with a stable haemodynamic condition at admission. Data were extrapolated from an internal database. Comorbidity burden was expressed by the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). Our primary end point was defined by a combination of severe complications requiring critical care, and in-hospital death. RESULTS: Ninety-eight patients (14.1% of 695 stable patients identified) developed severe complications. After a multivariable logistic regression analysis, four predictors were identified: signs of congestive heart failure [OR: 9.25, 95% confidence interval (CI): 5.61-15.25; P < 0.001], SBP 120 mmHg or less (OR: 2.10, 95% CI: 1.27-3.47; P = 0.004), haemoglobin level 13 g/dl or less (OR: 1.75, 95% CI: 1.03-2.95; P = 0.037), and the CCI above 3 (OR: 2.27, 95% CI: 1.13-4.56; P = 0.022). CONCLUSION: In our study, 73% of patients showed a stable haemodynamic condition on admission. Severe complications occurred in 14.1% of these patients, and signs of heart failure were the main determinants of the outcome. SBP, haemoglobin level, and the CCI concurred in the prediction of severe complications during the hospital stay.

La pluripatologia en una Unidad de Insuficiencia Cardíaca: la perspectiva de un internista / Pluripathology in a Heart Failure Unit - a internist’ perspective

Objetivo: Determinar la frecuencia de pluripatología en una Unidad de Insuficiencia Cardíaca, definir las características de los pacientes pluripatológicos y su pronóstico vital según dos modelos: el índice PROFUND y el Seattle Heart Failure Model. Material y métodos: Se han analizado de forma consecutiva los pacientes observados en la consulta de insuficiencia cardíaca de un hospital de tercer nivel durante dos meses. Se han registrado comorbilidades, categorías de pluripatología y los índices de Charlson, Barthel, Seattle Heart Failure Model y PROFUND. Resultados: Se incluyeron 246 pacientes, de los que 118 (48%) fueron pluripatológicos, con índice de Charlson 7,9±3,8 y PROFUND 3,5±7,1.La categoría de pluripatología más prevalente fue la A, seguida de la B yC. Los pluripatológicos fueron mayores (77 vs. 73 años, p=0,001), más frágiles, con mayor limitación funcional (Barthel: 84,7 vs. 96,1, p<0,001),mayor prevalencia de factores de riesgo cardiovascular y enfermedades crónicas e ingresaron más (14,4 vs. 4,7, p=0,015). La etiología más frecuente fue la cardiopatía isquémica. Los pacientes pluripatológicos tenían clase funcional más avanzada NHYA III-IV (4,2 vs. 0,8, p<0,001), NT-proBNP más elevados (2985 pg/ml vs. 1780 pg/ml, p=0,013) y precisaron mayor dosis de diuréticos (60 vs 40, p<0,001). Se verificó una concordancia en la estimativa de mortalidad entre el PROFUND y el Seattle Heart Failure Model. Conclusiones: Este estudio demuestra la elevada frecuencia de pacientes pluripatológicos en una unidad de insuficiencia cardíaca, reflejando una mayor sobrecarga asistencial y necesidad de cuidados más complejos. Se trata de una población con gran fragilidad, dependencia funcional y comorbilidad, que obliga a plantear un abordaje multidisciplinar. (AU)

Objectives: to determine the frequency of pluripathology in a Heart Failure Unit, defining the characteristics of pluripathological patients and their vital prognosis according to two models: PROFUND score and Seattle Heart Failure Model. Methods: consecutive patients from a Heart Failure Unit of a third level hospital were analized during two months. Comorbidities, pluripathology categories and Charlson, Barthel, Seattle Heart Failure Model and PROFUND scores were registered. Results: 246 patients were included, of which 118 (48%) were pluripathological, with Charlson score 7.9 ± 3.8 and PROFUND 3.5 ± 7.1.The most prevalent category of pluripathology was A, followed by B and C. The pluripathological patients were older (77 vs. 73 years, p = 0.001),more fragile, with greater functional limitation (Barthel: 84.7 vs. 96, 1,p <0.001), higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and chronic diseases and admitted more (14.4 vs. 4.7, p = 0.015). The most frequent etiology was ischemic heart disease. The pluripathological patients hadmore advanced functional class NHYA III-IV (4.2 vs. 0.8, p <0.001), higherNT-proBNP (2985 pg/ml vs. 1780 pg/ml, p = 0.013) and required higherdose of diuretics (60 vs 40, p <0.001). A concordance in the mortality estimate between the PROFUND and the Seattle Heart Failure Model wasverified. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates the high frequency of pluripathological patients in a heart failure unit, population with great fragility, due to functional dependence and the association of comorbidities, that requires a multidisciplinary approach. (AU)

Análisis de incompatibilidades medicamentosas en una unidad cardiointensiva: estudio transversal / Analysis of drug incompatibilities in a cardiac intensive unit: a cross-sectional study / Análise das incompatibilidades medicamentosas em uma unidade cardiointensiva: estudo transversal

OBJETIVO: Evaluar las incompatibilidades de los medicamentos intravenosos en pacientes cardíacos ingresados en una unidad cardiointensiva, asociando posibles incompatibilidades con la gravedad y las características del evento adverso. MÉTODO: Estudio transversal, observacional y cuantitativo. Realizado en una Unidad Cardiointensiva de un Hospital Universitario en la ciudad de Rio de Janeiro. La recopilación de datos se realizó de marzo a junio de 2018. Para identificar y clasificar las incompatibilidades de medicamentos se utilizó Micromedex(R). RESULTADOS: Se analizaron 111 recetas, con un total de 1,497 medicamentos recetados, el número promedio de medicamentos recetados fue 13,49 (6 ± 24), 580 (38.74%) por vía intravenosa, de los cuales el 41.38% se administraron simultáneamente con otro medicamento. El estudio mostró 121 incompatibilidades y las clases de drogas que tuvieron el mayor número de incompatibilidades fueron diuréticos, hipnóticos y sedantes, estimulantes cardiovasculares (aminas vasoactivas), antibióticos para uso sistémico, corticosteroides para uso sistémico, vasodilatadores cardiovasculares y agentes antiarrítmicos. Destacando las incompatibilidades clasificadas como moderadas, furosemida con hidrocortisona y midazolam con omeprazol y fentanilo severo con amiodarona. CONCLUSIÓN: El estudio destaca la importancia de la programación y administración de medicamentos por parte del equipo de enfermería con base en el conocimiento farmacológico. Se espera que el cuadro de recomendaciones preparado en el estudio, con atención de enfermería relacionada con incompatibilidades con mayor potencial de gravedad y sus eventos, pueda contribuir a la seguridad de los medicamentos

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the incompatibilities of intravenous medications in cardiac patients admitted to a cardiac intensive unit, associating possible incompatibilities with the severity and characteristics of the adverse event. METHOD: Cross-sectional, observational, and quantitative study, held in a Cardiac intensive Unit of a University Hospital in the city of Rio de Janeiro. Data collection took place from March to June 2018. Micromedex(R) identified and classified drug incompatibilities. RESULTS: We analyzed 111 prescriptions with a total of 1,497 prescription drugs, the average number of prescription drugs was 13.49 (6 ± 24), 580 (38.74%) intravenously in which 41.38% were administered simultaneously with another medicine. The study showed 121 incompatibilities and the drug classes that had the highest number of incompatibilities were diuretics, hypnotics and sedatives, cardiovascular stimulants (vasoactive amines), antibiotics for systemic use, corticosteroids for systemic use, cardiovascular vasodilators, and antiarrhythmic agents. We highlight the incompatibilities classified as moderate, furosemide with hydrocortisone, and midazolam with omeprazole, and severe fentanyl with amiodarone. CONCLUSION: The study highlights the importance of medication scheduling and administration by the nursing team based on pharmacological knowledge. We expect that the chart of recommendations prepared in the study with nursing care related to incompatibilities with greater potential for severity and its events can contribute to drug safety

OBJETIVO: Avaliar as incompatibilidades de medicações intravenosas em pacientes cardiopatas internados em uma unidade cardiointensiva, associando as possíveis incompatibilidades com a gravidade e característica do evento adverso. MÉTODO: Estudo transversal, observacional e quantitativo. Realizado em uma Unidade Cardiointensiva de um Hospital Universitário do município do Rio de Janeiro. A coleta de dados ocorreu de março a junho de 2018. Para a identificação e classificação das incompatibilidades medicamentosas, foi utilizado o Micromedex(R). RESULTADOS: Foram analisadas 111 prescrições, com um total de 1.497 medicamentos prescritos, a média de medicamentos por prescrição foi 13,49 (6 ±24), sendo 580 (38,74%) por via intravenosa, destes, 41,38% foram administrados simultaneamente com outro medicamento. O estudo apresentou 121 incompatibilidades e as classes medicamentosas que apresentaram maior número de incompatibilidades foram diuréticos, hipnóticos e Sedativos, estimulantes cardiovasculares (aminas vasoativas), antibióticos de uso sistêmico, corticoides de uso sistêmico, vasodilatadores cardiovasculares e antiarrítmicos. Destacando-se as incompatibilidades classificadas como moderadas, a furosemida com hidrocortisona e o midazolam com omeprazol e grave o fentanil com amiodarona. CONCLUSÃO: O estudo destaca a importância do aprazamento e administração de medicamentos pela equipe de enfermagem com base em conhecimentos farmacológicos. Espera-se que o quadro de recomendações elaborado no estudo, com os cuidados de enfermagem relacionados as incompatibilidades com maior potencial de gravidade e seus eventos, possa contribuir para segurança medicamentosa

Surge-in-Place: Conversion of a Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory Into a COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit and Back Again.

In Spring 2020, the United States epicenter of COVID-19 was New York City, in which the borough of the Bronx was particularly affected. This Fall, there has been a resurgence of COVID-19 in Europe and the Midwestern United States. We describe our experience transforming our cardiac catheterization laboratories to accommodate an influx of COVID-19 patients so as to provide other hospitals with a potential blueprint. We transformed our pre/postprocedural patient care areas into COVID-19 intensive care and step-down units and maintained emergent invasive care for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction using existing space and personnel.

Early Mobilization in People With Acute Cardiovascular Disease.

BACKGROUND: Early mobilization (EM) is recommended in critical care units. However, there is little known about EM in people with acute cardiovascular disease. METHODS: Consecutive admissions to a tertiary-care cardiovascular intensive care unit (CICU) before and after implementation of an EM program were reviewed. The Level of Function (LOF) Mobility Scale, which ranges from 0 (bed immobile) to 5 (able to walk >20 m), was used to measure and guide mobility. The primary outcome was discharge home. RESULTS: There were 1489 patients included in the analysis (preintervention, N = 637; intervention, N = 852). There were no differences in age, sex, or admission for ischemic heart disease (age 68.1 ± 16.1 years; 39.3% female). In the intervention cohort, one-quarter (N = 222; 26.1%) had at least mildly impaired prehospital functional status. The LOF was 4.6 ± 0.7 prehospital, 3.2 ± 1.4 on admission, and 4.2 ± 0.9 on CICU discharge. Half of patients (51.6%) increased their LOF by ≥1 during CICU admission. Nearly all mobility opportunities had a mobility activity (97.0%). The adverse event rate was 0.3% with no life-threatening events, falls, line dislodgements, or health care personnel injuries. The intervention group, compared with the preintervention group, was more likely to be discharged home (83.9% vs 78.3%, P < 0.007) and had a lower rate of in-hospital death (4.2% vs 6.8%; P = 0.04). When adjusted for age, sex, and comorbid illness, admission LOF was a predictor of discharge to health care facility (odds ratio = 0.72; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: EM is safe and feasible in the CICU and effective at increasing discharge home.

Prevention of Complications in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association.

Contemporary cardiac intensive care units (CICUs) have an increasing prevalence of noncardiovascular comorbidities and multisystem organ dysfunction. However, little guidance exists to support the development of best-practice principles specific to the CICU. This scientific statement evaluates strategies to avoid the potentially preventable complications encountered within contemporary CICUs, focusing on those that are most applicable to the CICU environment. This scientific statement reviews evidence-based practices derived in non-CICU populations, assesses their relevance to CICU practice, and highlights key knowledge gaps warranting further investigation to attenuate patient risk.

Elaboração de projeto pedagógico para preceptoria de enfermeiros em terapia intensiva cardiológica / Elaboration of a pedagogical project for preceptory nurses in intensive cardiological therapy / Elaboración de un proyecto pedagógico para enfermeras preceptorias en terapia cardiológica intensiva

Objetivo: relatar a elaboração de um projeto pedagógico em preceptoria para enfermeiros em terapia intensiva cardiológica. Método: estudo descritivo, exploratório, com abordagem qualitativa, do tipo relato de experiência, realizado em um Hospital Universitário Federal. Relato baseado na experiência de enfermeiras preceptoras em residência multiprofissional na área de concentração Enfermagem e atuantes na terapia intensiva cardiológica durante o ano de 2019. Resultados: a elaboração de um planejamento pedagógico para preceptoria de enfermeiros em terapia intensiva cardiológica contribui para sistematizar as atividades de estágio do residente, aprimorando o binômio teoria e prática, favorecendo assim, que os enfermeiros desenvolvam no exercício de sua profissão, atitudes reflexivas, críticas, humanitárias e éticas, com responsabilidade e competência para atuar em terapia intensiva cardiológica. Conclusão: por meio desse projeto pedagógico de estágio proporcionamos a melhoria da educação e formação dos residentes no âmbito da terapia intensiva cardiológica, bem como fomentamos a educação permanente e constante atualização.(AU)

Objective: to report the development of a pedagogical project in preceptorship for nurses in cardiac intensive care. Method: a descriptive, exploratory study with a qualitative approach, of the experience report type, carried out in a Federal University Hospital. Report based on the experience of preceptor nurses in multidisciplinary residency in the area of concentration Nursing and working in cardiac intensive care during 2019. Results: the elaboration of a pedagogical planning for preceptorship of nurses in cardiac intensive care contributes to systematize the internship activities of the resident, improving the binomial theory and practice, thus favoring that nurses develop reflexive, critical, humanitarian and ethical attitudes in the exercise of their profession, with responsibility and competence to work in cardiac intensive therapy. Conclusion: through this pedagogical internship project we provide the improvement of education and training of residents in the scope of cardiac intensive care, as well as promoting permanent education and constant updating.(AU)

Objetivo: informar la elaboración de un proyecto pedagógico en preceptoría para enfermeras en cuidados intensivos cardíacos. Método: estudio exploratorio descriptivo con enfoque cualitativo, del tipo de informe de experiencia, realizado en un Hospital de la Universidad Federal. Informe basado en la experiencia de las enfermeras preceptoras en residencia multiprofesional en el área de concentración Enfermería y activa en cuidados intensivos cardíacos durante 2019. Resultados: la elaboración de una planificación pedagógica para la preceptación de enfermeras en cuidados intensivos cardíacos contribuye a sistematizar las actividades de pasantía del residente, mejorando la teoría y la práctica binomial, favoreciendo así que las enfermeras desarrollen actitudes reflexivas, críticas, humanitarias y éticas en el ejercicio de su profesión, con responsabilidad y competencia para trabajar en terapia intensiva cardíaca. Conclusión: a través de este proyecto de pasantía pedagógica, brindamos la mejora de la educación y la capacitación de los residentes en el ámbito de la atención intensiva cardíaca, así como promovemos la educación permanente y la actualización constante.(AU)

Anion Gap Was Associated with Inhospital Mortality and Adverse Clinical Outcomes of Coronary Care Unit Patients.

BACKGROUND: Anion gap (AG) has been proved to be associated with prognosis of many cardiovascular diseases. This study is aimed at exploring the association of AG with inhospital all-cause mortality and adverse clinical outcomes in coronary care unit (CCU) patients. METHOD: All data of this study was extracted from Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care III (MIMIC-III, version 1.4) database. All patients were divided into four groups according to AG quartiles. Primary outcome was inhospital all-cause mortality. Lowess smoothing curve was drawn to describe the overall trend of inhospital mortality. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the independent effect of AG on inhospital mortality. RESULT: A total of 3593 patients were enrolled in this study. In unadjusted model, as AG quartiles increased, inhospital mortality increased significantly, OR increased stepwise from quartile 2 (OR, 95% CI: 1.01, 0.74-1.38, P = 0.958) to quartile 4 (OR, 95% CI: 2.72, 2.08-3.55, P < 0.001). After adjusting for possible confounding variables, this association was attenuated, but still remained statistically significant (quartile 1 vs. quartile 4: OR, 95% CI: 1.02, 0.72-1.45 vs. 1.49, 1.07-2.09, P = 0.019). Moreover, CCU mortality (P < 0.001) and rate of acute kidney injury (P < 0.001) were proved to be higher in the highest AG quartiles. Length of CCU (P < 0.001) and hospital stay (P < 0.001) prolonged significantly in higher AG quartiles. Maximum sequential organ failure assessment score (SOFA) (P < 0.001) and simplified acute physiology score II (SAPSII) (P < 0.001) increased significantly as AG quartiles increased. Moderate predictive ability of AG on inhospital (AUC: 0.6291), CCU mortality (AUC: 0.6355), and acute kidney injury (AUC: 0.6096) was confirmed. The interactions were proved to be significant in hypercholesterolemia, congestive heart failure, chronic lung disease, respiratory failure, oral anticoagulants, Beta-blocks, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI)/angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB), and vasopressin treatment subgroups. CONCLUSION: AG was an independent risk factor of inhospital all-cause mortality and was associated with adverse clinical outcomes in CCU patients.

Association Between Hospital Cardiac Catheter Laboratory Status, Use of an Invasive Strategy, and Outcomes After NSTEMI.

BACKGROUND: Increased use of invasive coronary strategies in patients admitted to hospitals with on-site cardiac catheter laboratory (CCL) facilities has been reported, but the utilisation of invasive coronary strategies according to types of CCL facilities at the first admitting hospital and clinical outcomes is unknown. METHODS: We included 452,216 patients admitted with a diagnosis of non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) in England and Wales from 2007 to 2015. The admitting hospitals were categorized into no-laboratory, diagnostic, and PCI hospitals according to CCL facilities. Multilevel logistic regression models were used to study associations between CCL facilities and in-hospital outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 97,777 (21.6%) of the patients were admitted to no-laboratory hospitals, and 134,381 (29.7%) and 220,058 (48.7%) were admitted to diagnostic and PCI hospitals, respectively. Use of coronary angiography was significantly higher in PCI hospitals (77.3%) than in diagnostic (63.2%) and no-laboratory (61.4%) hospitals. The adjusted odds of in-hospital mortality were similar for diagnostic (odds ratio [OR] 0.93, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.83-1.04) and PCI hospitals (OR 1.09, 95% CI 0.96-1.24) compared with no-laboratory hospitals. However, in high-risk NSTEMI subgroup (defined as Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events score > 140), an admission to diagnostic hospitals was associated with significantly increased in-hospital mortality (OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.06-1.75) compared with no-laboratory and PCI hospitals. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights important differences in both the utilisation of invasive coronary strategies and subsequent management and outcomes of NSTEMI patients according to admitting hospital CCL facilities. High-risk NSTEMI patients admitted to diagnostic hospitals had greater in-hospital mortality, possibly because of reduced PCI use, which needs to be addressed.

Factores predictivos de complicaciones intrahospitalarias en el Síndrome Coronario Agudo sin elevación del segmento ST / Predictive factors of intra-hospital complications in Non-ST-segment elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome

Introducción: El espectro clínico de los Síndromes Coronarios Agudos sin elevación del segmento ST incluye tanto a pacientes asintomáticos como a los que presentan isquemia activa, inestabilidad eléctrica, hemodinámica o parada cardiaca. Objetivo: Evaluar probables factores predictivos de complicaciones intrahospitalarias no letales en pacientes con diagnóstico de Síndrome Coronario Agudo sin elevación del segmento ST. Material y Métodos: Estudio observacional, analítico, de corte transversal con un universo de 218 individuos ingresados en la Unidad de Cuidados Coronarios Intensivos del Hospital Clínico-Quirúrgico Manuel Fajardo en 2016 y 2017. Resultados: Predominó el sexo masculino (51.4 por ciento) y la edad media fue de 68 años. Prevaleció la Hipertensión Arterial como factor de riesgo coronario. La edad mostró asociación estadística significativa con la aparición de cualquier complicación (p=0.015) y con las complicaciones hemodinámicas (p=0,014). El riesgo intermedio-alto, según el score TIMI, tuvo asociación estadísticamente muy significativa con las complicaciones hemodinámicas (p<0.01). Conclusiones: La edad tuvo asociación estadística con la aparición de complicaciones intrahospitalarias no letales. El sexo no se asoció con las complicaciones ni los antecedentes estudiados tampoco. Los pacientes con un riesgo intermedio-alto al ingreso, se asociaron con las complicaciones hemodinámicas(AU)

Introduction: The clinical spectrum of Non-ST-segment elevation Acute Coronary Syndromes includes both asymptomatic patients and those with active ischemia, electrical instability, hemodynamic or cardiac arrest. Objective: To evaluate probable predictive factors of non-lethal intra-hospital complications in patients diagnosed with Non-ST-segment elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome. Material and Methods: An observational, analytical, cross-sectional study was conducted with a universe of 218 individuals admitted into the Intensive Coronary Care Unit of Manuel Fajardo Clinical and Surgical Hospital between 2016 and 2017. Results: Male sex predominated (51.4 percent) and the mean age was 68 years. Arterial Hypertension prevailed as a coronary risk factor. The age showed significant statistical association with the appearance of any complication (p = 0.015) and with hemodynamic complications (p =0,014). The intermediate-high risk, according to the TIMI score, had a statistically significant association with hemodynamic complications (p <0.01). Conclusions: Age was statistically associated with the appearance of non-lethal intra-hospital complications. Sex was not associated with complications, nor did the background studied either. Patients with an intermediate-high risk at admission were associated with hemodynamic complications(AU)

Caracterización de fallecidos por Infarto de Miocardio en una Unidad de Cuidados Coronarios Intensivos / Characterization of patients who died after a Myocardial Infarction in an Intensive Coronary Care Unit

Introducción: Las enfermedades cardiovasculares constituyen un serio problema de salud a nivel mundial, la cardiopatía isquémica representa gran parte de este problema del cual Cuba no está exenta. Objetivo: Caracterizar a los pacientes fallecidos por infarto agudo de miocardio en la Unidad de cuidados coronarios intensivos del Hospital clínico-quirúrgico Comandante Manuel Fajardo en el período comprendido entre junio 2009 a marzo 2017. Material y Métodos: Estudio observacional, descriptivo, de corte transversal con un universo de 50 pacientes fallecidos por infarto agudo de miocardio. Resultados: Edad media de 62,6 años ± 7. Predominó el infarto de localización anterior (76 por ciento), unido a los pacientes con Killip-Kimball III - IV y con TIMI de riesgo bajo con un (68 por ciento) y (40 por ciento) respectivamente. El 56 por ciento del universo no recibió terapia de reperfusión y el shock cardiogénico (40 por ciento) fue constatado como complicación más presentada. Conclusiones: Predominaron los pacientes con infarto de cara anterior y los de clasificación de Killip-Kimbal III-IV, sin asociación estadísticamente significativa entre ambas variables. También fueron mayoría los no trombolizados y los que presentaron shock cardiogénico como complicación, aunque estas variables tampoco mostraron asociación estadísticamente significativa(AU)

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases are a serious health problem worldwide. Ischemic Cardiopathy represents a high percentage of this problem, and Cuba is not excluded. Objective: To characterize patients who died after Acute Myocardial Infarction in the Intensive Coronary Care Unit of the Clinical-Surgical Hospital Comandante Manuel Fajardo in the period from June 2009 to March 2017. Material and Methods: Observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study with a universe of 50 patients who died of acute myocardial infarction. Results: The mean age was 62.6 ± 7 years. The anterior myocardial infarction predominated (76 percent), together with patients classified according to Killip-Kimball III-IV criteria that also had low TIMI risk (68 percent and a 40 percent, respectively). 56 percent of the universe of patients was not thrombosed, and cardiogenic shock (40 percent) was confirmed as the most common complication. Conclusions: Patients with anterior myocardial infarction and Killip-Kimbal III-IV classification predominated in the study, without statistically significant association between these two variables. Most patients were not thrombosed and they were the ones who presented cardiogenic shock as a complication, although these variables also showed no statistically significant association(AU)

The effect of nature sounds on physiological indicators among patients in the cardiac care unit.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Environmental noises may create physiological and psychological disorders in patients hospitalized in the CCU. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the effects of nature sounds on physiological indicators among patients in the CCU. MATERIALS & METHODS: This randomized clinical trial was conducted on 93 patients hospitalized in the cardiac care units of three teaching hospitals in 2016. The patients were selected using the convenient method with three randomized blocks. The patients were assigned into three groups as nature sounds, silence that received a set of headphones without playing sounds, and control groups. In addition to routine care, the patients in the intervention group listened to nature sounds for 30 min using a set of headphones for two days. The patients in the control group only received routine care. In addition to routine care, the patients in the silence group used a set of headphones for 30 min to block noises and no sound was played for them. Physiological indicators such as heartbeat rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, respiration rate, and arterial O2 saturation were assessed using monitoring devices. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis via the SPSS software. FINDINGS: Nature sounds and silence had no statistically significant effects on physiological indicators. However, a statistically significant difference was reported in the heart rate in the nature sound group before and after the intervention in the first day of the intervention (P = 0.046). In the second day of the intervention, there were statistically significant differences in the diastolic blood pressure in the nature sounds group (P = 0.028), heart rate (P = 0.001) and diastolic blood pressure (P = 0.013) in the silence group, and heart rate (P = 0.014) in the control group before and after the intervention. CONCLUSION: Listening to nature sounds or the use of headphones blocked environmental noises and could influence mean arterial pressure. Future studies can examine the effects of this intervention implemented for a longer term using nature sounds by patients.

Impact of a cardiac intensivist on mortality in patients with cardiogenic shock.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate the association between high-intensity staffing by a dedicated cardiac intensivist and clinical outcomes in CS. METHODS: We enrolled 2923 consecutive patients admitted to a cardiac care unit (CCU) from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2015. In January 2013, the CCU changed from a low-intensity to high-intensity staffing unit managed by a dedicated cardiac intensivist. Patients were eligible if they required inotropes or vasopressors to maintain a systolic blood pressure>90mmHg, and had serum lactate≥2.0mmol/L. Eligible patients (n=513) were treated by low-intensity CCU (n=352) or high-intensity CCU (n=161). The primary outcome was CCU mortality. RESULTS: CCU mortality occurred in 49 patients (30.6%) of the low-intensity group versus 62 patients (17.6%) of the high-intensity group (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.44, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.25-0.75, p<0.001). In-hospital mortality was not significantly different between the groups (33.1% vs 24.4%, aOR 0.75, 95% CI 0.43-1.29, p=0.29). Among 135 patients treated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, the high-intensity model was associated with lower CCU mortality (54.5% vs 22.5%, aOR 0.24, 95% CI 0.07-0.77, p=0.02) and in-hospital mortality (57.6% vs 29.4%, aOR 0.28, 95% CI 0.10-0.81, p=0.02). CONCLUSION: High-intensity staffed CCU managed by a dedicated cardiac intensivist was associated with a significant reduction of CS-related mortality.

Paciente crítico oncohematológico, ¿hacemos lo que deberíamos hacer? / Critically ill pediatric hemato-oncology patient: What we do is what we should do?

OBJETIVO: Objetivo primario, definir el tratamiento y la monitorización del niño crítico con enfermedad hemato-oncológica en las unidades de cuidados intensivos españolas. El objetivo secundario fue, tras una revisión de la literatura, contextualizar el enfoque obtenido y detectar posibles puntos de mejora. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal. Se envió en el periodo abril del 2011-mayo del 2011 una encuesta online a 324 intensivistas y adjuntos de pediatría registrados en la Sociedad Española de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos. RESULTADOS: Se obtienen 105 respuestas globales, 59/105 indicaron acordar el tratamiento con el oncólogo. Ante hipotensión, taquicardia y requerimiento de inotrópicos, 85/105 realizan siempre monitorización no invasiva de presión arterial asociando además medición intraarterial (85/105) y casi siempre presión venosa central (70/105). Ante dificultad respiratoria, se instaura siempre (36/105) o frecuentemente (60/105) ventilación no invasiva. De forma previa a iniciar ventilación mecánica convencional, 72/105 consideran el pronóstico global del paciente. Ante fallo renal agudo oligúrico, las técnicas de depuración extrarrenal son ampliamente utilizadas (74/105). En caso de mal pronóstico, la adecuación del tratamiento es considerada de forma frecuente (75/103) y conjunta con el oncólogo (91/103) y la familia (81/103). CONCLUSIONES: Se observa gran similitud en las respuestas a pesar de que el manejo de este tipo de pacientes no está estandarizado. En caso de dificultad respiratoria, el uso de ventilación no invasiva como primera asistencia está ampliamente extendido. El desarrollo de futuros estudios observacionales prospectivos y multicéntricos permitiría conocer los resultados derivados de este enfoque

OBJECTIVE: Primary objective, to describe the management and monitorization of critically ill pediatric hemato-oncology patient (CIPHO) in the Spanish pediatric intensive care units (PICU). Secondary objective, through a literature review, to identify possible areas of improvement. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Observational transversal descriptive study. An anonymous web-based survey was sent to 324 Spanish pediatric intensivists from April 2011 to May 2011. None of them were pediatric residents. RESULTS: The survey was answered by 105 intensivists, 59/105 always agreed their treatment with the oncologist. In case of hemodynamic instability, non-invasive blood pressure monitoring is always done by 85/105 and almost always optimized by intra-arterial measuring (85/105) and central venous pressure (70/105). If respiratory failure the use of non-invasive ventilation (NIPPV) is always (36/105) or frequently (60/105) established prior to conventional mechanical ventilation. To replace or withdraw non-invasive ventilation only 44/96 of the respondents to this question use a clinical protocol. Before the instauration of conventional mechanical ventilation the oncological prognosis is considered by 72/105. In case of acute oliguric renal failure the renal replacement techniques are widely used (74/105). The withdrawal of sustaining life support is frequently discussed (75/103) and agreed with the oncologist (91/103) and caregivers (81/103). CONCLUSIONS: In our study, despite there is not a defined standard-of-care, the respondents showed similar therapeutics and monitorization choices. The use of NIPPV as first respiratory assistance is extended. Prospective, observational and multicenter studies should be developed to establish the results of this management in this population

Phenomenology of delirium among patients admitted to a coronary care unit.

AIM: To study the phenomenology and motor sub-types of delirium in patients admitted in a Coronary Care Unit (CCU). METHODS: Three hundred and nine consecutive patients were screened for delirium, and those found positive for the same were evaluated by a psychiatrist on DSM-IVTR criteria to confirm the diagnosis. Those with a diagnosis of delirium were evaluated on the DRS-R-98 to study the phenomenology and on the amended Delirium Motor Symptom Scale (DMSS) to study the motor sub-types. RESULTS: Eighty-one patients were found to have delirium. Commonly seen symptoms of delirium included: disturbances in sleep-wake cycle, lability of affect, thought abnormality, disturbance in attention, disorientation, short-term memory, and long-term memory. Very few patients had delusions. More than half of the participants were categorized as having hyperactive (n = 46; 56.8%) followed by hypoactive sub-type (n = 21; 26%) and mixed sub-type (n = 9; 11.1%) of delirium. There were minor differences in the frequency and severity of symptoms of delirium between incidence and prevalence cases of delirium and those with different motoric sub-types. CONCLUSION: Delirium in CCU set-up is characterized by the symptoms of disturbances in sleep-wake cycle, lability of affect, thought abnormality, disturbance in attention, disorientation, short-term memory, and long-term memory. Hyperactive delirium is more common than hypoactive delirium.

Do stable non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndromes require admission to coronary care units?

BACKGROUND: Clinical practice guidelines recommend admitting patients with stable non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE ACS) to telemetry units, yet up to two-thirds of patients are admitted to higher-acuity critical care units (CCUs). The outcomes of patients with stable NSTE ACS initially admitted to a CCU vs a cardiology ward with telemetry have not been described. METHODS: We used population-based data of 7,869 patients hospitalized with NSTE ACS admitted to hospitals in Alberta, Canada, between April 1, 2007, and March 31, 2013. We compared outcomes among patients initially admitted to a CCU (n=5,141) with those admitted to cardiology telemetry wards (n=2,728). RESULTS: Patients admitted to cardiology telemetry wards were older (median 69 vs 65years, P<.001) and more likely to be female (37.2% vs 32.1%, P<.001) and have a prior myocardial infarction (14.3% vs 11.5%, P<.001) compared with patients admitted to a CCU. Patients admitted directly to cardiology telemetry wards had similar hospital stays (6.2 vs 5.7days, P=.29) and fewer cardiac procedures (40.3% vs 48.5%, P<.001) compared with patients initially admitted to CCUs. There were no differences in the frequency of in-hospital mortality (1.3% vs 1.2%, adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.57, 95% CI 0.98-2.52), cardiac arrest (0.7% vs 0.9%, aOR 1.37, 95% CI 0.94-2.00), 30-day all-cause mortality (1.6% vs 1.5%, aOR 1.50, 95% CI 0.82-2.75), or 30-day all-cause postdischarge readmission (10.6% vs 10.8%, aOR 1.07, 95% CI 0.90-1.28) between cardiology telemetry ward and CCU patients. Results were similar across low-, intermediate-, and high-risk Duke Jeopardy Scores, and in patients with non-ST-segment myocardial infarction or unstable angina. CONCLUSIONS: There were no differences in clinical outcomes observed between patients with NSTE ACS initially admitted to a ward or a CCU. These findings suggest that stable NSTE ACS may be managed appropriately on telemetry wards and presents an opportunity to reduce hospital costs and critical care capacity strain.

Unidad médico-quirúrgica de Cardiología Pediátrica y Cardiopatías Congénitas del Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal de Madrid / Medical-surgical unit of Pediatric Cardiology and Congenital Heart Diseases of the Hospital Ramón y Cajal of Madrid

Desde su creación, en el año 1977 por el Dr. Manolo Quero, coincidiendo con la apertura del Hospital, el Servicio de Cardiología Pediátrica y Cardiopatías Congénitas del Hospital Ramón y Cajal, ha sido y es centro de referencia donde se siguen enfermos de toda la geografia española. Se creó para dar atención especializada a la gran demanda existente en aquellos años. Y, después de casi 40 años, tenemos la gran satisfacción de poder seguir viendo a esos niños, ya convertidos en adultos, y seguimos ofreciéndoles la asistencia necesaria para tratar las cardiopatías complejas de la mayoria de ellos. Este Servicio se ha caracterizado, tanto por su actividad asistencial como por su actividad docente e investigadora, que ha propiciado que sea distinguido como Centro de Referencia Nacional (CSUR). Hoy en día, contarnos con un Servicio mixto de 7 facultativos, provenientes de la Pediatria y de la Cardiología y especializados en la Cardiología Pediátrica y las Cardiopatías Congénitas. El Servicio cuenta con varias Unidades especializadas como la de Hemodinámica Intervencionista Infantil y en Cardiopatías Congénitas, Hipertensión Pulmonar Pediátrica y Unidad de Arritmias Pediátricas y en Cardiopatias Congenitas, entre otros. Nuestro Servicio se integra en un equipo multidisciplinar, compuesto por cirujanos cardiacos, intensivistas pediátricos, anestesistas, obstetras, radiólogos, rehabilitadores y enfermería especializada, entre otros, que permiten la atención integral al enfermo. La gran mayoría de las consultas externas se organizan con la filosofía de la consulta de alta resolución. Realizándose la mayoría de las exploraciones y técnicas complementarias (electrocardiograma, ecocardicigrafía, Holter, ergometría) en el mismo día de la consulta (AU)

Since its creation in 1977 by Dr. Manolo Quero, coinciding with the opening of the Hospital, the Ramon y Cajal Hospital Pediatric Cardiology and Congenital Heart Disease Unit has been and is a referral center where patients coming from any Spanish region can get specialized and personalized integral care for children with congenital heart disease. After almost 40 years, the Service has integrated also the care of our grown up patients with congenital heart defects, into a transversal care unit. This service is characterized by its healthcare activity and its teaching and research that have led it to be distinguished as a National Reference Center (CSUR) activity. Today we are 7 physicians who perform our functions in different sections and allowed to specialize and create units as Hemodynamics, pulmonary hypertension and arrhythmias among others. Our cardiology department is integrated into a also has a rnultidisciplinary team including cardiac surgeons, pediatric intensivists, anesthesiologists, radiologist, physiotherapist, among others that allow for comprehensive patient care nursing. Our outpatient visits are Organized with the philosophy of "high resolution" visits and all the complementary examinations and functional tests) EKG, echocardiography, Holter cardiopulmonary exercise testing, and sometimes in the MRI) are done in the same day of the external visit (AU)